Basil Mini Greek

(Lycopersicon esculentum )

A popular crimson red medium tomato with great taste that tolerates low night temperatures, so it is ideal for cooler area. A Russian heirloom that is an early producer. A tough and vigorous producer that needs staking.

An attractive cultivar medium sized, scarlet red fruit that is full of flavour. Tolerant of cool night temperatures and ideal for cool climate gardens

Flavours/Food Partners

A rich flavored tomato that partners well with Latin herbs like garlic, oregano, marjoram, rosemary and thyme. Use with any good salad vegetable, Nasturtium flowers and mixed fresh herbs to make an attractive and tasty salad.

Health/Cooking/Medicinal

Like all tomatoes, Red Russian is high in the cancer fighting agent, Lycopene and also Vitamin C. For a classic rich sauce cook and mix with garlic, marjoram, sweet basil, diced shallots, and fresh pizza thyme. Finely dice, mix finely chopped shallots, fresh pesto basil and extra virgin olive oil and place on lightly toasted Turkish bread then top with an anchovie for a special homemade bruschetta.

Landscaping/Planting

Plant in an airy, sunny position in well drained soil or very large pots. Requires a 1.1 to 1.4 m stake.

Cultivation/Fertiliser

Like all tomatoes it must receive a deep soaking when almost dry and should not receive overhead watering. Feed regularly with Seasol and Powerfeed. A small amount of dolomite lime after planting will make stronger plants. Remove side shoots and develop two or three main leaders. Harvest when fruit is full color

Herb Attributes

Description

(Ocimum basilicum minimum)

A small mounding compact plant excellent for containers. The ‘Basil Lovers Treat’.

Flavours/Food Partners

A strong, spicy aniseed flavour. Herbs like chives, garlic, rosemary, sage and coriander are complimentary food partners. A tasty addition to sea food, poultry and game meat or mix through cooked vegetables like asparagus, snow peas, eggplant and zucchini.

Health/Cooking/Medicinal

High in Vitamin A & C, calcium, phosphorus and potassium. The vitamin A that is present in basil makes for a glowing complexion, glossy hair and keen eyesight also considered to be a powerful antioxidant. Add to soups, stews, stir fries, pasta sauces and gravies just prior to removing from heat. Basil is used in patés and terrines, where it’s volatile notes will help counteract the richness of liver and game. Can also be used in herbal teas and potpouri. It has antibacterial and antispadmodic properties and be be applied to insect bites.

Landscaping/Planting

Prefers a well drained sunny position rich in organic matter. Water moderately. perfect for pots and kitchen window sills.

Cultivation/Fertiliser

Remove flowers as they appear this will prolong leaf production. Regular applications of Seasol and Powerfeed to keep the plant healthy and producing well.